Partners in Parenting

“Letting Kids Pray!”

When we sit down to dinner as a family, we always have a time of prayer.  I usually lead the prayer of thanks for the food, those who have prepared it, and other words of thanksgiving.  But not always!  Jen and I ask the kids to pray sometimes.  If we are all really hungry, “Come Lord Jesus…” is the possible prayer of choice by the kids.  Usually though, they will pray a prayer that begins with 2 words that almost all our prayers as mom and dad begin with – Thank you.  As I listen to them begin their prayers with the words “Thank you,” I’m reminded of how much we are modeling prayer for our kids.  Listening to them pray has also given me great insight into their heart and their faith.  They pray about things that are heavy on their heart.  They pray for people who matter to them.  They pray about their understanding of Jesus and his love for us.  They ask for things like help, protection, and understanding about things of faith.  This happens the more they have a chance to pray from their heart.

I’m reminded of this because one of my kids led us in prayer before a meal this past weekend, and I was amazed at the prayer.  It was about Holy Week and how much God loves each of us to send Jesus to be our Savior.  It wasn’t long, but it articulated a thankful relationship to God for Jesus.  It ended without a mention of the food we were about to eat.  I guess our food really isn’t that significant compared to what God has done for us through Jesus.  Having your kids lead prayer can be powerful for them spiritually AND for you too!  “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’”

Family Discussion Points!

Commit to a whole week without praying “Come Lord Jesus…” at mealtime.

Ask others to pray from their heart, but parents should be the first ones to do it.

Talk about prayer being a way of just plain talking to God about anything on your heart or mind at the time of the prayer.